Principles of Agricultural Science - Animal

Principles of Agricultural Science—Animal is a foundation-level course engaging students in hands-on laboratories and activities to explore the world of animal agriculture. During the course, students develop a comprehensive Producer’s Management Guide for an animal of their choice.

Student experiences will involve the study of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, nutrition, reproduction, health, selection, and marketing. For example, students will acquire skills in meeting the nutritional needs of animals while developing balanced, economical rations. Throughout the course, students will consider the perceptions and preferences of individuals within local, regional, and world markets.

Students will explore hands-on projects and activities to learn the characteristics of animal science and work on major projects and problems similar to those that animal science specialists, such as veterinarians, zoologists, livestock producers, and industry personnel, face in their respective careers. Students will investigate, experiment, and learn about documenting a project, solving problems, and communicating their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community.

Teachers are provided detailed professional development to facilitate instruction. Every lesson is aligned with national standards for agriculture, science, mathematics, and English language arts.